Todd Barrow is making a name for himself as a country artist to watch. The Texas singer-songwriter has racked up more than a few accolades, from a PRSA Award of Excellence, an Akademia Award for Best Country Album, and an artist spotlight in Alternative Roots Magazine, American Pride Magazine and AVA Radio. He has appeared on television shows including Good Morning Texas with Jerry Matheny and Texas Music Café on PBS. He’s even shared the stage and studio with some of country music’s heaviest hitters, from CMA musicians in Miranda Lambert’s band to Fort Worth Producer of the Year Bart Rose. But it’s more than just Todd’s success to date that makes him such a compelling country artist. What’s most readily apparent in Todd Barrow’s music is his heart.
Todd’s music is no country for old men. While he undoubtedly draws his sonic influence from titans like Hank Williams and Johnny Cash, his melodies skew modern. He plays almost every instrument, from piano to guitar, mandolin, harmonica, and drums, and the multi-instrumentalist doubles as a songwriter for himself as well as for other artists. “”If I can put a smile on someone’s face through song, well that just means the world to me,” he says. “I try to get to the real heart and soul of a song. To me, it’s not just words but a story, and I do my best to portray that with every line. That’s my main draw to country music; the stories, the people, and the sincerity that comes from the heart.”
It’s precisely that heart that has won over audiences around the world. Todd Barrow’s recent single, “The House That Love Built”, co-written with Sonny Burgess, was featured on RightNow TV and was honored by PRSA Fort Worth for its fundraising efforts on behalf of the Ronald McDonald house. Todd was featured in the lineup for Bo’s Extravaganza festival at John Schneider’s Studio, alongside such artists as Kid Rock and Tom Wopat from Dukes of Hazzard. He has received radio airplay from Italy Radio 6.75 for his single “Hot Southern Night”.
Todd Barrow just released his latest single, “Girl Like You,” written about love during COVID-19! Todd is a proud member of the Harry Fox Agency, the Country Music Association, the International Singer-Songwriters Association, the Texas Music Office, BMI, the Fort Worth Songwriters Association, American Music Podcasting, the NSAIDFW Songwriters Association, the Dallas Songwriters Association, the British Country Music Association and the Bayou Country Music Association.
Email: Toddwaynebarrow@yahoo.com
Cell: 817-983-4168
Website: http://www.ToddBarrowMusic.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ToddBarrowMusic
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ToddBarrowMusic
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/ToddBarrowMusic1
1.) What elements and/or characteristics made you say to yourself that you wanted to do music for a living? Who are your influences/heroes/role models?
I grew up in a musical family. Remember hearing the radio around the house most of the time. The moment I first stepped on a stage I was hooked. This was around the age of five. Then started learning various instruments along the way.
I’ve been a fan of many bands and artists. Some of my favorites are Alabama, Johnny Cash, George Strait and Hank Williams Jr.
2.) If you could compare yourself to an already established artist, who would that be and why? If you don’t like to compare yourself, then music-wise, what separates you from other musicians?
My style of country music is similar to Joe Nichols, Gary Allan and Tim McGraw! The things that sets me apart as an artist are drive, passion and never giving up.
3.) Everyone in life goes through adversity of some sort. Is there anything in your life that has any influence on the kind of songs you write? What is the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure on your path to becoming a musician?
Yes, we all face tough times in this world. When my mom passed away, it was very crushing. It took awhile to heal losing her because she encouraged me to pursue music. I started writing songs in her honor. One of the most difficult things I’ve faced is finding resources comparable to major labels.
4.) How do you prepare yourself to write certain songs? What is your song-writing and recording process?
A good run or work out. Clearing my head to begin the songwriting process. Songs come at all times of the day for me. Depends on what mood I am in and topics that really matter. After I know the song is ready I schedule time at my favorite recording studio in Texas.
5.) Unfortunately the music industry is full of talented individuals who just don’t get any recognition for their talent and/or hard work. What do you plan to do to make sure you stand out and get noticed? Would you rather be on a major label or would you rather stay independent? Why or why not? In regards to the music industry itself, do you think that the traditional music industry model as we know it is dead?
The music industry is about making money. Not really about the work of the artist. I agree many are not recognized for their contribution to the record business. I’ve created my own sound and write my own songs to ensure success in today’s market.
Depends on the contract with a major label. They both have their perks. I do enjoy being a free agent! Yes, the way the industry operated years ago has passed. The internet opened the flood gates. On a positive note the indie artist have access to major label systems.
6.) Are you able to make a living with your music? If so, how were you able to attain a career doing what you love? If not, what do you do in order to fund your music career? What advice would give to someone who’s interested in pursuing a career in music?
I make music because I choose to make music. It is something I do on the side that keeps me busy. My real job funds my music career. I work at a children’s hospital in the radiology department. My advice is determine what you want to accomplish in the music industry. Develop a solid plan to achieve your goals.
7.) How do you think the internet and social media affected the music industry and how musicians are able to market themselves? Social media is obviously an extremely important element in today’s world, especially when it comes to business, branding, marketing, etc. With that being said, do you think an artist will be able to survive in today’s music industry if they’re not social media savvy?
You must have an online presence to really stay in the game. A lot of resources available on Google and social media. I don’t think you can make it as an artist without the elements of branding and marketing. It is a fact of life in the business world.
8.) Artists who try to make music for the general public and make more money are usually seen as “sell-outs.” Do you see it that way and if so, what do you plan to do to make sure your music stays true to your brand and make a good living at the same time without having to “sell out”?
I believe if you are successful making money with your music that is a plus. The term “sell-out” refers to anyone who is told what to do with their craft/talent. Nothing wrong with making money in any field or sector of business. I stay true to my roots to make sure I don’t stray from the purpose of my music.
9.) Professionally, where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
I look forward to the next five years to accomplish more with my talent and gift. Creating higher quality country music and having more fun doing it!!!!